First Aston Martin DBX707 rolls off production line
THE FIRST customer Aston Martin DBX707 has rolled off the production line at the iconic car manufacturer’s plant in the Vale of Glamorgan.
Aston Martin’s factory at St Athan employs more than 700 staff and the production of the new DBX707 has created more than 100 new skilled automotive jobs.
Welsh Secretary Simon Hart, who along with Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, David TC Davies and Vale of Glamorgan MP Alun Cairns, witnessed the moment yesterday, said: “It’s great to see the iconic Aston Martin brand roll off the production line in here in Wales, before being exported to countries around the world. The success of this model is testament to the highly skilled and hard-working team, and it’s fascinating to see how they work.
“I want Wales to be a highly attractive location for cutting-edge automotive technologies and the UK Government will continue to work to secure and support the investment of companies, like Aston Martin, as they drive economic growth and create jobs.”
Rich Campbell, lead technician at Aston Martin, St Athan, said: “I’ve been working for Aston Martin Lagonda for six years now and I love working for the company. I was always interested in cars and this job has given me the opportunity to combine my passion and my work.
“Since joining the company I have been able to progress and have been promoted to a lead technician. My son has also joined AML and it’s great to know that he will have the opportunity to have a good career.”
Michael Straughan, chief operating officer of Aston Martin Lagonda, said: “Aston Martin is immensely proud to be manufacturing industryleading products like DBX707 from a world-class facility in Wales, and we are delighted to see the very first model completed.
“The initial reaction from customers and media has been tremendous, and as we ramp-up DBX707 production at St Athan, it is fantastic that we have also had the opportunity to grow our team and create more employment opportunities for people from the local community. Wales has a rich tradition of industrial and engineering excellence and we’re excited to be forging the future and to support that proud heritage.”